The National Cadet Corps (NCC) celebrated the 67th NCC Day on Sunday at the BJB Autonomous College Ground here with NCC Cadets presenting a well-coordinated march-past.
Chief guest Governor Dr S C Jamir reviewed the parade and took the salute. Minister of Higher Education, Science & Technology Dr Pradeep Kumar Panigrahy was the guest of honour.
The march-past was followed by an impressive display of various activities by the NCC’s Army, Navy and Air Wings which included aerobatics, continuity drill and a fine demonstration of how a section of infantry destroys an enemy post. The function also showcased the skills in horsemanship by way of tent pegging and show jumping by both boys and girls cadets of the R&V Squadron. A folk dance by the cadets from Sambalpur stole the hearts of the audience too.
Dr Jamir appreciated the skills demonstrated by NCC cadets in various fields. He complemented the NCC for instilling in cadets the critical skills and qualities such as leadership, discipline, commitment and responsibility. He commended the NCC’s contributions in the fields of national unity, national integration and nurturing the youths to be responsible citizens of the country.
Dr Panigrahy complemented the cadets of the Odisha Directorate for excelling in various walks of life. He assured all possible support for raising additional units to meet the growing aspiration of large numbers of youths, especially studying in rural and remote areas of the State.
As a humanitarian gesture, the Minister presented a cheque of Rs 1 lakh as assistance from the State Government to the parents of late Cadet Kanhu Charan Maharana, who died due to sickness while travelling to Darjeeling for a training camp.
Deputy Director General NCC, Odisha, Commodore lalit Kumar Agrawalla complemented the cadets for their excellent performance in various NCC disciplines and inter-Directorate competitions.